VERTUE (George), an eminent engraver, was born in London in the year 1684, where he was put apprentice to an engraver of arms; but his genius and
spirit prompting him to appear in a higher sphere, he applied himself with great assiduity to learn the art of drawing, in which he became a good proficient. He afterwards commenced engraver; and though greatly restrained by the native modesty of his temper, made a considerable figure in that business, particularly in engraving of portraits, in which he carried the art to greater perfection than any English engraver had done before him, and for the greatest part of his life had no equal in this kingdom. Sir Godfrey Kneller was his first patron; and he was afterwards encouraged by lord Somers, the earl of Winchelsea, the lord Coleraine, the lord Oxford, &c. and the late prince of Wales. His works are numerous. They are generally faithfully copied, and highly finished; and though they are far from equalling the works of some of our present engravers, they are not destitute of merit. Vertue was an antiquarian; and has redeemed from obscurity many valuable remains of antiquity. He died in 1756, and was buried in the cloisters of Westminster abbey. He was a very amiable man in private life; and was much esteemed by his friends for his piety, modesty, simplicity, and candour.